Ecco the Dolphin: Defender of the Future

 Dreamcast
Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 26
  3. Negative: 0 out of 26
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  1. CheckOut
    70
    A graphical dream stuck in a gameplay nightmare.
    All this publication's reviews
  2. CNET Gamecenter
    70
    A beautiful game that comes close to "classic" status, but doesn't quite deliver.
    All this publication's reviews
  3. Dreamcast HQ
    70
    And while the game itself is straightforward in gameplay, the difficulty of the puzzles are almost outrageous.
    All this publication's reviews
  5. Gaming Maxx
    69
    Hardcore gamers should absolutely love this game because of the challenge it presents, but regular gamers like myself might have a bit of trouble swallowing the frustrating gameplay.
  6. DC Swirl
    60
    It's unfortunate that a few things like a more intuitive training level and a lock-on button prevent "Ecco" from greatness.
  7. Maxim Online
    60
    Offers enough twists to make us take the bait.
  8. Games Radar
    50
    It looks absolutely stunning, but for all but a minority, the game play doesn't match up to expectations.

Awards & Rankings

22
#22 Best Dreamcast Game of 2000
17
#17 Most Discussed Dreamcast Game of 2000
4
#4 Most Shared Dreamcast Game of 2000

User Reviews

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User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 27 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 27
  3. Negative: 2 out of 27
  1. track16
    Jan 25, 2020
    8
    Great 3D gameplay, action and puzzles; similar story to previous Sega releases but feels new and fresh all over again. Very realistic dolphinGreat 3D gameplay, action and puzzles; similar story to previous Sega releases but feels new and fresh all over again. Very realistic dolphin and fish modeling. Three distinct acts create a rich story experience. Great soundtrack. Recommended!… Full Review »
  2. hoogafanter
    Nov 14, 2017
    6
    I have to parrot the others here. The game is beautiful. The puzzles are creative and the overall experience leaves you satisfied. But theI have to parrot the others here. The game is beautiful. The puzzles are creative and the overall experience leaves you satisfied. But the camera and controls just never feel right. You never fully feel in control because Ecco moves incredibly fast and the camera is right on him, making it hard to see where you're actually going. Making turns is also pretty rough while trying to keep your bearings. It's very tough to navigate combat, speed, and movement all at the same time.

    More importantly, the gameplay can be both tedious and downright confusing. So many times you'll be wondering what the hell to do next, and when you figure it out you'll be pissed off that they didn't even give you a clue to help you out...    … Full Review »
  3. RealEccoFan
    Jul 28, 2023
    10
    The greatest game ever released in the history of this world!! Humanity peaked here.
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